What to expect and how to get ready for your Newborn Photography Session
Your newborn baby’s first few weeks are full of precious and fleeting moments that you’ll want to cherish forever. Booking a newborn photography session is the perfect way to capture those unforgettable expressions and tiny details before they’re gone. As a newborn photographer in Sussex, I’ve put together this guide to help you prepare for a newborn photography shoot.
Timing is everything
The ideal window for newborn photography is within the first two weeks after birth when your little one is still very sleepy and amenable to being posed. Book your session well in advance, even before you’re due, to ensure availability. Once your baby arrives, let me know, and we’ll schedule the appointment, typically within 5-14 days after their birth.
I get asked frequently: “How soon should I take photos of my newborn?” The answer is not straight-forward. At less than two weeks old, your newborn is the perfect age for those dreamy, sleepy pictures, because they do sleep a lot.
But a lot really depends on what you are after. Anything after eight weeks old is probably too late for typical newborn photos but that doesn’t mean we can’t capture some lovely shots. During this family photography shoot, baby Cece is nearly four months old and it’s lovely to see her interacting with her mummy and looking straight into the camera, even if it’s not a typical newborn shot.
What to expect during the session
I will come to visit you in your home. Newborn photography sessions are slow-paced and relaxing affairs that can last up to four hours. This allows ample time for feeding, soothing, and posing your baby throughout the shoot.
Choose a nice light room, or a bed by the window and make sure this room is warm and cozy, so your little one feels safe and comfortable. As a professional newborn photographer, I’m trained in posing techniques that prioritise your baby’s safety above all else. You won’t find any overcomplicated poses in my portfolio, as many you might find online are simply not safe and with baby’s best interest in mind.
Throughout the session, you’re welcome to take breaks for feeding, changing, or just cuddling your newborn. There is absolutely no need to rush or feel pressured. Little one will pick up on you being nervous and there honestly is plenty of time to get some lovely snaps. We’ll take it at baby’s pace. I’ll guide you through the process, capturing timeless portraits and precious details along the way.
How to prepare your baby
To help the session go as smoothly as possible, here are some tips for preparing your newborn:
- Feed your baby before the session: A full tummy means a sleepy, content baby who’s more likely to stay settled.
- Give your baby a bath: Bathing your little one before the shoot can help them relax and feel cozy.
- Avoid lotions or oils: While soft, moisturised skin is lovely, oils and lotions can create unwanted shine in the photos. Stick to plain, unscented products for a day or two before the session.
- Keep extra supplies near: Nappies, wipes, a change of clothes (for you and baby), snacks, and anything else you might need to keep your newborn happy and comfortable.
What to wear for a newborn photography session
As for your own attire, choose something simple and comfortable that you feel good in. Solid colours and soft fabrics tend to photograph best. If you’d like to be photographed with your baby, we can discuss wardrobe options that will complement the session’s aesthetic.
What not to do
- Panic if you’ve not been able to do any of the things above! I am a mum, I get it. With a newborn, nothing ever goes to plan. It’s honestly totally ok.
- Feel bad about accidents. Poonamy? Pukey baby? I’ve been there! Accidents will and do happen. No trouble at all, it’s quite common!
- Rush or put pressure on yourself. The last thing I want is you to be stressed, not only does little one pick up on it, but you’re a new mummy, this is not a time for perfectionism. The more chill we all are, the better results we get. I promise I will NEVER rush you!
With these tips in mind, you and your newborn will be ready to create beautiful, lasting memories. I can’t wait to capture this special time for your family! Please get in touch for an informal chat!
